Whistleblowing policy

Harrassment or victimisation

We recognise that a decision to report a concern can be a difficult one to make, not least because of the fear of reprisal from those responsible for the malpractice. We will not tolerate harassment or victimisation and will take action to protect you when you raise a concern.

Confidentiality

We will treat all concerns in confidence, and if you wish to remain anonymous we will make every effort to keep your identity confidential. However, in certain cases, we may not be able to deal with an issue unless you are prepared to be a witness.

Anonymous allegations

This policy encourages you to put your name to an allegation. Concerns expressed anonymously are much less powerful, but they will be considered in an appropriate manner.

In exercising this discretion, the factors to be taken into account would include:

• the seriousness of the issues raised

• the credibility of the concern

• the likelihood of confirming the allegation from attributable sources